For decades, Africa’s markets have been flooded with imported goods, creating a cycle of economic dependency that has stifled local industries. The consequences of this reliance are now becoming clearer as global trade tensions, protectionist policies, and economic uncertainties threaten the stability of African supply chains.
A turning point came with the rise of trade wars under the “America First” policies, which saw the U.S. imposing tariffs on China, Mexico, Canada, and the European Union. These tensions, compounded by BRICS’ growing resistance to Western economic dominance, signaled a shift in global trade dynamics. For Africa, this was a wake-up call. It underscored the need for economic self-reliance and the importance of investing in domestic manufacturing.
The African Manufacturing Landscape survey revealed 574 active manufacturers on the continent, with 25 involved in vaccine production. Egypt alone holds nearly 20% of Africa’s vaccine capacity, with ambitions to produce 380 million doses annually by 2030. The African Union has set a bold target: to manufacture 60% of the continent’s vaccines by 2040. But beyond healthcare, Africa’s broader industrial landscape is also seeing a push for self-sufficiency—one that requires political will, investment in infrastructure, and strong policy frameworks.
However, this industrial momentum is threatened by persistent insecurity. From the devastating impact of Boko Haram in Nigeria to the resurgence of the M23 rebels in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Africa’s manufacturing sector faces existential threats that hinder growth and deter investors. Countries like Sudan and South Sudan continue to battle economic collapse due to prolonged conflict, with inflation soaring beyond 145% as of February 2025.
Despite these challenges, Africa’s $50 billion annual vaccine and medicine market, alongside growing opportunities in textiles, technology, and agribusiness, offers a path toward sustainable industrialization. The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) has the potential to transform intra-African trade, but only if local industries are given the support they need to thrive.
The message is clear: Africa must prioritize the patronage of locally made products. Strengthening domestic manufacturing is not just an economic necessity—it is a survival strategy in an unpredictable global trade environment. The time to act is now.
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